When we read an online article, whether on Helium or elsewhere, there are a number of core components that determine how easy the article is to read and how likely we are to read all the way to the end. Some of these components depend upon the writer's skill with words but many of them require no more than compliance with established writing conventions. Let's look, then, at the ingredients that go towards creating an easy-to-read article.
- Formatting: Headings and paragraph breaks:
When we read an article, we like to see it broken down into nice manageable chunks. And we like those chunks to be sign-posted, through headings, so that we can see at a glance whether the article looks like being worth reading. Additionally, use the Preview tool on Helium to make sure that no additional formatting errors have crept in when you transfer your content from Word to Helium.
- Sentence length and fluency of writing:
In the same way as people like to see writing broken into manageable chunks, we also prefer sentences that aren't unduly long. Reading back what you've written is a good way to gauge the usability of your writing. If your sentences are unwieldy, then consider splitting out what you want to say into several shorter sentences, or use bullet points.
- Good grammar and correct spelling:
We can usually understand what a writer is trying to say even if there are grammatical and spelling errors. However, it does make comprehension more difficult and is likely to lead to annoyance and possibly even confusion if you don't get these basics right. Make sure you use your computer's spell-check facility before publishing an article.
- Knowing when to use bullet points and numbered lists:
Where you have a list of items that you want to convey in your article, a good way to do this might be to use bullet points or numbered lists. The advantage is that our brains are accustomed to this writing convention and it can enable the reader to quickly understand the key points that you are outlining. However, it's important to get the balance right. An article that goes straight into a long list of bullet-pointed items may appear cold and may put readers off.
- Fluent writing style:
Articles can be written in a conversational tone or a business-like tone and the approach that works best will depend upon the topic and the audience. Similarly, you can choose to include humour and/or personal observations that may help to give your writing more personality. The more we write, the more we tend to develop a writing style and, often, its development will be influenced by how well received our previous articles have been.
- Length:
An article that is very short may turn people off, as they may perceive that you haven't put much effort into it. Similarly, an overly long article may stretch your readers' patience.
- Avoid using jargon:
When we are very close to a subject, the chances are that we are used to the jargon and abbreviations that aficionados typically employ. However, don't assume that all your readers will be experts. They may just be bamboozled by terms that you take for granted.
- Content that is authoritative and interesting:
Readers want reassurance that the writer knows what they are talking about. However, it's not enough just to know your stuff. If you want readers to enjoy and fully take in the points that you are making, then you also need to make your article interesting.
Summary:
It may seem that there are a lot of points here to consider. However, many of them are really very simple conventions to follow and will become second nature after a while. It's certainly worth putting the extra effort into maximising the readability of your articles, as this should have a significant impact upon how your articles are ranked against your peers.
Ultimately, it is the quality of your content that will determine whether your article is rated as great. However, first impressions will determine whether they get beyond the initial paragraph so it is vital that your writing is presented in line with standard writing conventions and in such a way that immediately marks you out as a professional-standard writer.